First Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

The First ransomware is a newly discovered threat that originates from the HiddenTear malware family which affects user data and blackmails the victims for a ransom payment. To learn more about it read our comprehensive removal guide.


Name
First

Special Feature
Screen Lock Function

File Extensions
.locked

Ransom
1.5 Bitcoins

Solution #1
You can skip all steps and remove First with the help of an anti-malware tool.

Solution #2
First ransomware can be removed manually, though it can be very hard for most home users. See the detailed tutorial below.

Distribution
Spam Email Campaigns, malicious ads & etc.

First Ransomware Description

The First Ransomware is a HiddenTear offspring that has been identified by security researchers as being a potential threat to computer users worldwide. It has been created by the virus developer Dark Repulser and according to the security analysis it has been coded in an Visual Studio 2015 environment.

The malware follows a typical infection behavior – first it modifies several system components and then targets various user data. The affected files include the most popular multimedia file types such as audio, video, photos, as well as databases and office documents. All compromised data receive the .locked extension .

After the encryption engine has completed the virus displays the following crafted ransom note:

You have achieved something
You just got my little brand new ransomware
button ‘Checkout payment options’
button ‘PAY’
Anyways, lets talk about your files and PC
Your files are crypted with strong encryption that is literally uncrackable
Pay 1.5 BTC and i am going to decrypt your files.
Death, be not proud, though some have called thee
Mighty and dreadful, for thou art not so;
*You have got 48 hours to make a payment. If time is up, then your data is going to be deleted.

The virus features a screenlocker and extorts the victim owners for the sum of 1.5 Bitcoins.

First Ransomware Distribution

First Ransomware is distributed mainly through spam email messages and infected software bundles and counterfeit update packages that are distributed mainly on malicious and hacked web servers. They can also be found on P2P networks like BitTorrent.

First Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete First completely with a few mouse clicks.

STEP I: Start the PC in Safe Mode with Network
This will isolate all files and objects created by the ransomware so they will be removed efficiently.

    1) Hit WIN Key + R

Windows-key-plus-R-button-launch-Run-Box-in-Windows-illustrated

    2) A Run window will appear. In it, write “msconfig” and then press Enter
    3) A Configuration box shall appear. In it Choose the tab named “Boot
    4) Mark “Safe Boot” option and then go to “Network” under it to tick it too
    5) Apply -> OK

Or check our video guide – “How to start PC in Safe Mode with Networking

STEP II: Show Hidden Files

    1) Open My Computer/This PC
    2) Windows 7

      – Click on “Organize” button
      – Select “Folder and search options
      – Select the “View” tab
      – Go under “Hidden files and folders” and mark “Show hidden files and folders” option

    3) Windows 8/ 10

      – Open “View” tab
      – Mark “Hidden items” option

    show-hidden-files-win8-10

    4) Click “Apply” and then “OK” button

STEP III: Enter Windows Task Manager and Stop Malicious Processes

    1) Hit the following key combination: CTRL+SHIFT+ESC
    2) Get over to “Processes
    3) When you find suspicious process right click on it and select “Open File Location
    4) Go back to Task Manager and end the malicious process. Right click on it again and choose “End Process
    5) Next you should go folder where the malicious file is located and delete it

STEP IV: Remove Completely First Ransomware Using SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

Manual removal of First requires being familiar with system files and registries. Removal of any important data can lead to permanent system damage. Prevent this troublesome effect – delete First ransomware with SpyHunter malware removal tool.

SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter

STEP V: Repair Windows Registry

    1) Again type simultaneously the Windows Button + R key combination
    2) In the box, write “regedit”(without the inverted commas) and hit Enter
    3) Type the CTRL+F and then write the malicious name in the search type field to locate the malicious executable
    4) In case you have discovered registry keys and values related to the name, you should delete them, but be careful not to delete legitimate keys

Further help for Windows Registry repair

STEP VI: Recover Encrypted Files

    1) Use present backups
    2) Restore your personal files using File History

      – Hit WIN Key
      – Type “restore your files” in the search box
      – Select “Restore your files with File History
      – Choose a folder or type the name of the file in the search bar

    restore-your-personal-files-using-File-History-bestecuritysearch

      – Hit the “Restore” button

    3) Using System Restore Point

      – Hit WIN Key
      – Select “Open System Restore” and follow the steps

restore-files-using-system-restore-point

STEP VII: Preventive Security Measures

    1) Enable and properly configure your Firewall.
    2) Install and maintain reliable anti-malware software.
    3) Secure your web browser.
    4) Check regularly for available software updates and apply them.
    5) Disable macros in Office documents.
    6) Use strong passwords.
    7) Don’t open attachments or click on links unless you’re certain they’re safe.
    8) Backup regularly your data.

SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter

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Author : Martin Beltov

Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.


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